BCAAs Improve Hormone Profiles Following Weight Training

There is definitely evidence for the effectiveness of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) as an ergogenic aid. BCAAs are often used to improve recovery from athletic training, and are also used by bodybuilders during dieting phases to help retain muscle mass. One particular study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research examined the effects of BCAA supplementation on healthy males during periods of intense resistance training. The study effectively demonstrated that supplementation with BCAAs can lead to improved recovery and a hormonal profile conducive to muscle building during periods of intense resistance training.

In the study, one group was assigned a high BCAA supplement, and the other group was assigned a placebo supplement. Both groups began consuming the supplement 3 weeks before beginning a new training program in which training volume was increased to the point of overreaching (when a person is training often and intensely enough that they cannot properly recover between training sessions). Both groups continued consuming the supplement throughout the new training program as well.

Blood was drawn and tested for testosterone, cortisol, and creatine kinase before supplementation began, after supplementation, after 2 days of the new training program, and after 4 days of the new program. The group that consumed the high BCAA supplement had higher levels of testosterone and lower levels of cortisol and crestine kinase following resistance training than the group that consumed the placebo supplement.

The researchers concluded that high BCAA intake, at least in the short term, may produce a hormonal profile conducive to muscle building and may decrease muscle damage following training. As a result, performance and muscle growth (or a lack of muscle breakdown) may be increased. This is just one more study supporting the use of BCAA as a sports supplement.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Cassie is a chemistry major and national level bodybuilder. Questions or comments? Talk to Cassie on the FORUM or on FACEBOOK.

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website reflects the opinion of our staff and manufacturer’s and should not be interpreted as medical advice. The information is not unbiased or independent and is the opinion of the owners of mindandmuscle.net The descriptions and statements accompanying these products and vitamin supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Article Categories

Mind and Muscle is dedicated to one single idea. That it is possible to completely recast the genetic expression of ones body. In other words, anyone's body can be transformed into any type of physique the owner wants. Find everything you need here from nutrition to training.

Knowledge. Inspiration. Supplementation. Results.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.